Martin Finds New Life at Opengate

Martin and staff memberAlgafar Ameen enjoying a day atthe New York City piers.

Martin is 63 years old. Developmentally-disabled and non-verbal since birth, Martin moved from a New York City facility to an Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) home at Opengate about two years ago.

“At Opengate, Martin is healthy, happy and celebrated,” says his sister, Florence. This was not always the case, she adds, since for most of his adult life it was a long, difficult time with frequent trips to the emergency room and few satisfactory explanations for why he needed to go to the hospital.

“After my mother was unable to supervise Martin’s care due to her advancing years, I searched to find an appropriate, safe residence for Martin,” says Florence. “After much research and persistence we were very grateful to hear of the availability of a placement at Opengate.”

Miraculously, she says, there was no transition time for Martin. “It was as though he was just finally able to exhale. This placement has been even more than we ever envisioned.”

“Opengate has exceeded every one of my expectations,” adds Florence. “Martin is now functioning as an important part of his community. He is on fewer medications and he is able to actually smile at appropriate times.”

“Moreover,” she adds, “he is socially interacting with his peers, teachers, staff and doctors. He plays ball and table games with others. There is a bounce to his step and it is clear to all that he enjoys his daily routine.”

“There is a bounce to his step and it is clear to all that he enjoys his daily routine.”
–Florence, Martin’s sister

Martin has improved so markedly that he is now part of a more advanced program that includes many day trips and recreational outings. According to Florence, “Martin, once and for all, has a life!”

“My daily worry about him has been replaced with confidence and peace of mind. I know that he is in good hands and that he is functioning in the least restrictive environment.” To Florence’s great satisfaction, her brother “has advanced socially, physically and emotionally. It just doesn’t get any better than this. I am so gratified to see him thriving.”